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In today’s society preservatives and strange processed ingredients have become commonplace. Finding products without these potentially harmful ingredients can be actually be challenging. As a parent though, I have always been vigilant about finding natural, safe products for babies and young children. Babies’ organs and bodily systems, including the liver, kidneys, and immune system, are still developing. Their systems are not as efficient at detoxifying and eliminating harmful substances as those of adults. That is why the best diaper rash cream for baby is a natural diaper cream.
When it comes to babies, it absolutely important to pay close attention to anything that goes on her skin. Babies have a higher skin surface area to body weight ratio compared to adults, which means they can absorb more toxins through their skin. Additionally, their skin is thinner and more permeable, making it easier for toxins to enter their bloodstream. It just makes sense, fewer toxins means healthier babies. Since diaper cream is a product that we tend to use daily on baby to prevent diaper rash, it is important to choose products with safe and natural ingredients.
Best Ingredients To Look For In A Diaper Cream
Natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter are gentle and soothing, reducing the risk of irritation on a baby’s delicate skin. Here are some of the best natural ingredients in diaper cream that are safe for babies.
Zinc Oxide
This is one of the most common diaper cream ingredients, and also one of the most effective. The compound helps seal the skin against moisture while preventing fecal bacteria and ammonia, both of which can cause diaper rash. Zinc oxide also has great healing properties, which makes it perfect for treating diaper rash after it appears. When choosing a zinc oxide-based cream, make sure to choose one that is non-nanomaterial, as nanomaterial zinc oxide can damage human cells.
Natural Oils
Many diaper creams contain oils to moisturize the skin, but some of these oils can be processed and do more harm than good. Fish oils, coconut oil, and other plant oils are great options that keep the skin soft while delivering healthy vitamins to your baby’s skin at the same time.
Oat Extract
Oat extract is a safe, natural ingredient that soothes and nourishes skin on contact. Since ground oatmeal is a natural exfoliant and treatment for inflammation, it makes sense that oat extract would be a perfect way to treat diaper rash.
Beeswax
Beeswax is another great ingredient for soothing and nourishing the skin. It’s been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, making it a great treatment for diaper rash.
What To Avoid In Diaper Rash Ointment Cream
While the above ingredients are both safe and effective, they are sometimes paired with other, more harmful ingredients. If the diaper cream you’re considering has one of the below questionable ingredients, skip it. I would opt for natural diaper rash cream instead.
Dyes
Dyes are commonly added to hide discoloration as products age, but their chemical composition makes them harmful to the skin. Try and look for diaper creams that advertise themselves as fragrance- and dye-free.
Parabens
Parabens are a known carcinogen that can affect hormone function and brain health. They’re usually used to prevent mold and bacteria, but the risks definitely outweigh the benefits.
Hydrogenated oils
These are hyper-processed oils that are sometimes used in place of petroleum jelly as a moisturizer. Skip ingredients like rapeseed oil or safflower seed oil in favor of natural oils or shea butter.
Talc
Talcum powder has been linked to ovarian and lung cancer, making it an ingredient you’ll want to avoid. It can also cause irritation or respiratory problems if you inhale it.
Fragrance
Fragrance can irritate your baby’s skin, not to mention their olfactory senses. Fragrances also usually contain unknown chemicals, so it’s best to choose something fragrance-free.
How To Find The Best Diaper Cream
Despite the proliferation of harmful ingredients out there, there are plenty of safe, natural, and effective diaper rash creams available. You can even make your own diaper rash cream, if you have the time and resources (not a sure thing for most parents).
Fortunately for busy parents, options like Triple Paste 3X Max Diaper Rash Ointment tick all the boxes of safe ingredients, effective, and affordable. It has 40% zinc oxide, which is the maximum amount allowable by the FDA for diaper rash, and is triple the amount that’s in Triple Paste Original Diaper Rash Ointment. It’s also one of the few diaper creams that work overnight without using any harsh chemicals. Additionally, it is great knowing that the triple paste diaper cream is pediatrician-recommended!
As long as you avoid the most harmful chemicals on the list, you’ll be sure to find a diaper cream that’s safe to use for your baby. Just make sure it’s got enough safe active ingredients like zinc oxide that make it effective, too.
How To Apply Diaper Cream
Applying diaper cream correctly can help prevent and treat diaper rash, ensuring your baby stays comfortable. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply diaper cream:
- Clean the Diaper Area:
- Gently wipe the baby’s bottom with a soft cloth or baby wipes. Make sure to remove all urine and feces.
- If the skin is very sensitive, you can rinse the area with lukewarm water.
- Pat Dry:
- Use a clean, soft towel to pat the diaper area dry. Avoid rubbing the skin as it can cause irritation.
- Apply Diaper Cream:
- Squeeze a small amount of diaper cream onto your fingers. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient, but you can use more if needed.
- Gently apply the cream to the diaper area, focusing on the areas that are red or where the skin is broken out.
- Spread the cream evenly, creating a thin layer that covers the affected areas and creates a protective barrier.
- Diapering:
- Allow the cream to dry for a few moments if possible.
- Put on a clean diaper, ensuring it is not too tight, to allow air to circulate and help keep the area dry.
- Wash Your Hands:
- After applying the diaper cream, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any residue.
Additional Tips:
- Frequency: Apply diaper cream at each diaper change, especially at bedtime or when the baby will be in the diaper for an extended period. To reduce the risk of diaper rash, do not leave baby in wet diapers or dirty diapers. Once you discover soiled diapers, change them right away.
- Consult a Pediatrician: If the rash persists or worsens despite using diaper cream, consult a pediatrician for further advice.
Conclusion
Natural diaper creams often have nutrient rich ingredients like natural oils and butters that are rich in vitamins and can nourish the skin, promoting overall skin health. In addition, natural diaper rash creams typically do not contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, or other harsh chemicals that can cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivities. In conclusion, using a natural diaper rash cream can provide peace of mind for parents looking to use safer, more environmentally friendly products on their babies.
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